Zebra Technologies Corp., Vernon Hills, Ill., announced plans to collaborate with Bosch Connected Devices and Solutions, Chicago, to offer a complete reference design for the development of food safety solutions.

With the advent of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), food and beverage manufacturers, produce growers and retailers are deploying digital solutions to manage their food safety and compliance needs. This reference design extends the capabilities of Zebra's recently announced smart refrigeration solution to mobile supply chain scenarios, providing real-time intelligence and electronic records of integrity to meet food safety guidelines. 

The easy-to-deploy, cloud-based temperature monitoring solution uses wireless sensors, mesh networking, mobile computers and the Zatar Internet of Things (IoT) cloud service.

The solution also utilizes the Bosch’s cross domain development kit (XDK), which includes multiple sensors for monitoring various product conditions.

A user-friendly dashboard, real-time alerts and notifications for proactive actions provide companies with a simple, accurate way to monitor products.

And, the solution works together with Zebra mobile computers and printers, allowing users to remain mobile and connected to information that will help improve productivity and workflows.

"We are excited about the collaboration of these two innovative companies to address a critical aspect of our lives—food safety,” says Steffen Zacharias, general manager, Bosch Connected Devices and Solutions North America. “Combining the ease-of-use and flexibility of Bosch's XDK and Zebra's logistics and cloud technologies enables continuous and real-time monitoring as well as the flexibility to support future solutions. We build on the true concept of the IoT—a solution ‘invented for life.'"

"Visibility across the food supply chain is vital today for protecting consumers and meeting regulatory demands,” adds Tom Bianculli, vice president, emerging technology office, Zebra Technologies. “Zebra is focused on building an ecosystem around its Zatar platform that will enable partners to create enterprise applications for our customers. By developing this reference design with Bosch, we are helping partners build and enable compelling food safety solutions."